Hidden gems

 Picture perfect sunset

Most people know of the islands that litter the south of Thailand, popular destinations for sun seekers. A little less well known island resides over the border in neighbouring Malaysia… Langkawi. This beautiful tropical getaway epitomises the chilled beach feel many crave yet normally end up having to share with hordes of other sun chasers. This place was specifically planned so that we’d have a few days just to relax from the intensity of backpacking and it certainly fulfilled our wish.

Malaysia is a little bit different. Firstly for those who don't know the country's profile so well, the first thing that may surprise you (aside from the strangely huge amount of jersey wearing Chelsea supporters – seriously, what’s with that) is the conservative nature of the locals. Being an Islamic state, the cultural dress favours the burkas and other modest garments. Langkawi is a popular (duty-free) destination for the locals (and Middle-eastern tourists) and it still retains its national Muslim identity, with most of the beach goers were still well covered.

Aside from the sand, touring of the inland jungle is a popular option, though most people are found around the water; on it, below it or above it. On the west side of the island (where we stayed) one road runs parallel to the beach offering international plates of food, but the local dishes we did try (seafood naturally, given it's location) was very good and still followed the Asian norm of including spice.

Oh so tempting... though not so the naturist part

A couple hours south (by boat) lies the island of Penang. Over the years, it has become a melting pot of international immigrants, especially from China, India, Europe and Japan. Out of the ‘pot’ came a cross-cultural mishmash of cuisine, most notably Nyonya (Chinese-Malay) and suffice to say the resulting food is the best of both worlds!

The island itself is much more popular and vibrant place than Langkawi, as it encourages people to explore. The hub, Georgetown, reflects its rapid growth during the colonial era, with a range of buildings that look like they were transported straight from Europe. However underneath these rafters, the Asian contingency thrives today in the form of Chinatown and Little India, which add the smells of Asian street food to the atmosphere. A beautiful combination.

The walkways

Outside town, there are fruit farms one can visit and sample the little well known fruits of Asia like water-apples, dragon-eyes and the repugnant durian. For insect enthusiasts, children or those interested in seeing different flora and fauna, the butterfly farm meets all these needs, as you walk through an enclosed habitat, doing you best to duck around the swarms of flying insects or marvel at the flesh-eating plants (not too closely though).

This leaf disguised butterfly blew my mind

These islands may not give you raw Malaysia but to see the good side of human migration and integration, Penang’s a must! For a beach holiday in a gorgeous yet quiet environment, Langkawi’s for you.